The Easy Trail That Might As Well Be The Birding Capital Of Nebraska
By Andrea Verschuyl|Published November 10, 2023
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Andrea Verschuyl
Author
Having grown up in Washington, Andrea is a self-admitted Pacific Northwest snob. In their opinion, there's simply nowhere else in the country with the Evergreen State's beauty. After attending university, Andrea devoted themselves to writing full-time. They're thrilled to represent Washington for Only In Your State while pursuing other professional and personal projects. They currently reside in Olympia, where they enjoy leaf-blowing their yard, perfecting homemade ramen, cuddling with their three tiny dogs, and feeding their pufferfish, Sea Biscuit.
Rowe Sanctuary in Gibbon, Nebraska, is managed by the Audobon Society. The nonprofit also operates the Iain Nicolson Audubon Center located inside the reserve. There, you'll find a Visitor's Center and a gift shop. For those arriving with children, the organization offers a variety of enrichment activities for young learners. Some of these include bird bingo and a trail scavenger hunt.
The Audubon Society purchased the reserve in 1974. Subsequent additions have increased the sanctuary to over 2,900 acres, including five miles of riverfront habitat.
Hikers with a taste for prose will enjoy the small signs sprinkled along the trail. Emblazoned with quotes, they're intended to increase visitors' enjoyment of the gorgeous scenery. They certainly help generate a sense of contemplation as you meander along the winding paths.
While protecting the land for future generations is Audubon's main goal for the preserve, education is another of their core values. The center works with local schools and families to organize excursions that emphasize field learning.
It isn't always the right season to spot migrating cranes, but hikers will invariably spot numerous other species that call the sanctuary home. The damp meadow environment provides essential habitat for Nebraska's native birds and wildlife.
Regardless, there's something serene about exploring Rowe Sanctuary during the off-season. Without the flocks of birds and the crowds of people watching them, this pristine preserve is blissfully quiet. Hikers seeking solitude may prefer these peaceful days.
If you’re looking for the best hike to see birds in Nebraska, we recommend visiting Rowe Sanctuary. The trails are approachable and family-friendly but teeming with diverse wildlife to delight visitors. Audubon’s Visitor’s Center provides an educational component to this outdoor excursion, allowing hikers to stretch their knowledge and their legs. While visiting during the crane migration is worthwhile, you’ll also love the park in quieter seasons when it’s just you and the birds. What are you waiting for? Assemble your hiking gear and plan your trip. Rowe Sanctuary and its beautiful birds wait you!
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